Synlett 2010(5): 769-773  
DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1219359
LETTER
© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart ˙ New York

Guanidine Bases in Synthesis: Extending the Scope of the Corey-Chaykovsky Epoxidation

David J. Phillips, Andrew E. Graham*
School of Chemistry, Cardiff University, Main Building, Park Place, Cardiff, CA10 8PP, UK
Fax: +44(29)20874030; e-Mail: GrahamAE@cardiff.ac.uk;
Further Information

Publication History

Received 30 October 2009
Publication Date:
17 February 2010 (online)

Abstract

Guanidine bases, such as 1,5,7-triazabicyclo[4.4.0]dec-1-ene (TBD) or 7-methyl-1,5,7-triazabicyclo[4.4.0]dec-1-ene (MTBD), are highly effective reagents for the in situ generation of sulfonium ylides from sulfonium salts in Corey-Chaykovsky epoxidation reactions of aldehydes. These reactions proceed rapidly to produce the corresponding epoxides in excellent yields and with high selectivity for the trans product. Significantly, this reagent combination is applicable to both nonenolizable and enolizable aldehydes and α,β-unsaturated aldehydes.